Labyrinth's Heart: Political games

by Jaylee Austin

Join Cins and Ethan on a magical journey through the heart of the labyrinth, where love, courage, and destiny intertwine in surprising and enchanting ways. Cursed characters, enemies to lovers, and chosen one.

It's time for the renewal blood fest in Queen Cins's wacky, creepy kingdom, and she's got a lot on her plate. Known for her fierce intelligence and breathtaking beauty, Cins has watched countless humans venture into her world, their quest for glory overshadowing the true magic that thrives in the shadows.

When Ethan, an aspiring artist, stumbles into the labyrinth, seeking inspiration, he finds himself captivated not only by the Queen's allure but also by the formidable power she embodies. Instead of fleeing in fear like others, Ethan extends his curiosity, sparking an unexpected bond that defies the boundaries of their worlds.

As Halloween approaches, Cins playful goblin subjects bet no human would dare ask their queen on a proper date. To defy their skepticism and unveil the wildness of her heart, Cins agrees to a night of adventure with Ethan. Together, they traverse the ever-shifting corridors of the labyrinth, encountering riddle-spouting sphinxes, charming trickster spirits, and shadow hounds that tease and torment them at every turn. With each challenge, they unveil each other’s true selves. Ethan’s artistic eye recognizes beauty in the grotesque, while Cins shares her dreams of unity between goblins and humans.

However, as the weeks unfolds, an ancient curse awakens, endangering their lives and their budding romance. They must unravel the labyrinth’s mysteries and trust in one another’s strengths to escape the darkness. As dawn approaches, Cins faces a heart-wrenching choice between her throne and her desire to be with Ethan, uncovering shocking truths about herself that bind their destinies.

Labyrinth's Heart is an enchanting tale of romance, adventure, and the courage to embrace one’s true self against all odds.

256 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 16, 2025

About the author

In a whimsical corner of the universe that echoes the enchanting realms of Wonderland, Jaylee Austin weaves tales that dance between the ethereal and the imaginative. Enthralled by mythology from every dimension—be it the enchanting Celtic goddesses, the vast treks through the nine worlds of the Nordic realms, or the ancient whispers of the Sumerian gods—she crafts modern romantic worlds that shimmer with magical realism.

Her desk, a canvas of creativity, is often interrupted by the playful pounces of her two adorable companions, but none more so than Tilly, her clever pug. A true companion on her literary adventures, Tilly offers sage wisdom as they both ponder the mysterious questions that tug at the hearts of readers.

With a spirited background as a retired high school English and Theater teacher, Jaylee brought wit and warmth to the classroom, inspiring countless students to embrace their own creativity during National Writing Month. Through her enchanting stories, Jaylee invites readers to leap into alternate realities where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, and every page is a step further down the rabbit hole.

Reviews

[Jaylee]

Dear reader.
Thank you for choosing this book, the book includes the following tropes:

Forbidden Love-this story revolves around a romantic relationship that faces significant obstacles. The love story between Cins (the goblin queen) and Ethan (a human artist) is complicated by their different backgrounds and the expectations of their respective world.

Chosen one- Both Cins and Ethan are destined for greatness as they grapple with restoring balance to the labyrinth.

Identity Crisis: Figuring out who we are as individuals

Sacrificial Love: Throughout the story, both Cins and Ethan are willing to risk everything, whether it is their safety or their political power, to protect each other.

Magic as a double-edged sword: In the story, magic serves as a tool for creation but also poses threats through curses that must be confronted carefully by Cins and Ethan.

As you read, I hope you feel the raw pain and burning hope of a queen and her unlikely savior as they fight an ancient curse together. Let your heart be stirred if you believe in second chances.

Warmly,
Jaylee Austin

[Tegan Lleuad · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a truly magical tale! The story of Cins and Ethan swept me straight into a labyrinth so vivid it felt alive. Imagine Alice’s Wonderland—then tilt it sideways into something darker, stranger, and more intoxicating. Thank you, Jaylee for taking me on such a wild ride!

[Starlet · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 rounding up to 4. I felt like I was in the labyrinth with Cins and Ethan. Very descriptive. This was also a rollercoaster of emotions for the reader and especially the characters. I won this in a giveaway for Kindle. Definitely worth the read.

[Lindsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a true sucker for a book that has any elements of Labyrinth in it, this book does but makes it completely it’s own story.